How Insulin Works in the Body How Insulin Works in the Body Search the site By Elizabeth Woolley - Reviewed by a board-certified physician. Updated November 14, 2016 Insulin has a hand in several processes in your body: Not only does it assist with metabolizing carbohydrates and storing glucose for energy in cells, but it also helps utilize the fat, protein, and certain minerals you eat. Because this hormone is so important in helping your body use the foods you ingest, a problem with insulin can have widespread effects on all of your body's systems, tissues, and organs—either directly or indirectly. If you have type 2 diabetes, learning how insulin works can help you understand why so many other medical conditions are associated with diabetes, why certain lifestyle practices are beneficial, and how your body reacts to food. Where Insulin is Produced in the Body Insulin is a hormone made up of a small polypeptide protein that is secreted by the pancreas, which acts as both an endocrine and exocrine gland. Endocrine glands are the system of glands that secrete hormones to regulate body functions. Exocrine glands aid in digestion.

The pancreas sits behind the stomach, nestled in the curve of the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), and contains clusters of cells called islets of Langerhans. Islets are made up of beta cells, which produce and release insulin into the bloodstream. Insulin is Part of a Balancing Act Insulin affects carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism. Your body breaks these nutrients down into sugar molecules, amino acid molecules, and lipid molecules, respectively. The body can also store and reassemble these molecules into more complex forms. Insulin causes the storage of these nutrients, while another pancreatic hormone called glucagon releases them from storage. Insulin is involved in your body's careful balancing act to keep your blood sugar levels within a normal range. In simple terms: If your blood sugar is high: The pancreas releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream to lower blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar is low: The pancreas releases glucagon to help the liver release stored glucose into the bloodstream to raise blood sugar levels. Blood sugar levels rise when most foods are consumed, but they rise more rapidly and drastically with carbohydrates. The digestive system releases glucose from foods and the glucose molecules are absorbed into the bloodstream.

The rising glucose levels signal the pancreas to secrete insulin to clear out glucose from the bloodstream. Insulin binds with insulin receptors on cell surfaces and acts as a key to open up the cells to receive glucose. Insulin receptors are on almost all tissues, including muscle cells and fat cells. Insulin receptors have two main components—the exterior and interior portions. The exterior portion extends outside the cell and binds with insulin. When this happens, the interior part of the receptor sends out a signal inside the cell for glucose transporters to mobilize to the surface and receive glucose. As blood sugar and insulin levels decrease, the receptors empty and the glucose transporters go back into the cell. Insulin and Type 2 Diabetes In a perfect situation, glucose from carbohydrates gets cleared rapidly. However, when there is insulin resistance , this does not happen, and sustained high glucose levels become a problem. Insulin resistance can be due to a problem with the shape of the insulin (preventing receptor binding), not having enough insulin receptors, signaling problems, or glucose transporters not working properly. Whatever the specific cause, the function of insulin is impaired. Insulin resistance develops before type 2 diabetes is diagnosed.

To make up for less effective insulin, the pancreas works overtime to increase insulin output. Eventually, some of the insulin works and blood sugar levels remain normal for a while. As insulin resistance worsens and the pancreas cannot keep up with the demand, glucose levels begin to rise and diabetes is diagnosed when levels get too high. How Insulin Affects Fat Metabolism Carbohydrate and fat metabolism are closely connected and both influenced by insulin. If insulin is not working properly, problems can occur. For example, high levels of insulin can send the wrong signals to the brain. These signals tell the brain that there is excess insulin and that your cells are starving for glucose. So in response, your brain creates cravings for carbohydrates, signals your body to store fat, and orders carbs to be burned for energy rather than body fat. This is why weight loss can be difficult when you have type 2 diabetes. Insulin also plays a key role in the development of high triglyceride levels: In the Liver: Insulin stimulates the creation and storage of glycogen from glucose. High insulin levels cause the liver to get saturated with glycogen. When this happens, the liver resists further storage.

Glucose is used instead to create fatty acids that are converted into lipoproteins and released into the bloodstream. These break down into free fatty acids and are used in other tissues. Some tissues use these to create triglycerides. In Fat Cells: Insulin stops the breakdown of fat and prevents the breakdown of triglycerides into fatty acids. When glucose enters these cells, it can be used to create a compound called glycerol. Glycerol can be used along with the excess free fatty acids from the liver to make triglycerides. This can cause triglycerides to build up in the fat cells. How Insulin Affects Protein and Minerals Insulin helps amino acids from protein to enter cells. When this process is hindered, it can make it difficult to build muscle mass. Insulin also makes cells more receptive to potassium, magnesium, and phosphate. These substances are also known as electrolytes, which help conduct electricity within the body. They influence muscle function, blood pH, and the amount of water in your body. An electrolyte imbalance can be worsened by high blood sugar levels as this can cause excessive urination with water and electrolyte loss.

Normal and Impaired Insulin Function To break things down in an easy-to-remember format, this list illustrates what happens with normal and impaired insulin function. Normal function: Insulin transports glucose into cells to clear glucose from the bloodstream. Impaired function: Glucose is not cleared from the bloodstream. Normal function: Insulin helps convert glucose to glycogen (the storage form of glucose) in liver and muscle cells. Impaired function: Glucose is not easily stored as glycogen. Cells "starve," which can cause the body to behave as if there are starvation conditions and even cause cravings for sweet carbohydrates, although there are high levels of glucose in the body. Normal function: Insulin slows down the creation of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, like protein in the liver. An example of this is when the liver releases glucose into the bloodstream when blood sugar levels are too low. Impaired function: The liver releases glucose into the bloodstream inappropriately even when blood sugar levels are high. Normal function: Insulin stops the breakdown of fat and stimulates the creation of fat under the right circumstances. Impaired function: High insulin levels can signal for less fat loss and more fat storage.

Normal function: Insulin regulates the formation of fat from simple sugars, which can eventually become triglycerides . Impaired function Triglycerides levels increase inappropriately. Normal function: Insulin stimulates protein synthesis (creation), which affects muscle growth. Impaired function: You may have difficulty building muscle. How to Help Insulin Work Better These strategies may help you increase insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance: What is Insulin? - Important hormone allows your body to use sugar (glucose) What is Insulin? Written by Amy Hess-Fischl MS, RD, LDN, BC-ADM, CDE Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that allows your body to use sugar (glucose) from carbohydrates in the food that you eat for energy or to store glucose for future use. Insulin helps keeps your blood sugar level from getting too high ( hyperglycemia ) or too low (hypoglycemia). The cells in your body need sugar for energy. However, sugar cannot go into most of your cells directly. After you eat food and your blood sugar level rises, cells in your pancreas (known as beta cells) are signaled to release insulin into your bloodstream.

Insulin then attaches to and signals cells to absorb sugar from the bloodstream. Insulin is often described as a “key,” which unlocks the cell to allow sugar to enter the cell and be used for energy. After you eat, cells in your pancreas are signaled to release insulin into the bloodstream. If you have more sugar in your body than it needs, insulin helps store the sugar in your liver and releases it when your blood sugar level is low or if you need more sugar, such as in between meals or during physical activity. Therefore, insulin helps balance out blood sugar levels and keeps them in a normal range. As blood sugar levels rise, the pancreas secretes more insulin. If your body does not produce enough insulin or your cells are resistant to the effects of insulin, you may develop hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), which can cause long-term complications if the blood sugar levels stay elevated for long periods of time. Insulin Treatment for Diabetes People with type 1 diabetes cannot make insulin because the beta cells in their pancreas are damaged or destroyed. Therefore, these people will need insulin injections to allow their body to process glucose and avoid complications from hyperglycemia. People with type 2 diabetes do not respond well or are resistant to insulin.

They may need insulin shots to help them better process sugar and to prevent long-term complications from this disease. Persons with type 2 diabetes may first be treated with oral medications, along with diet and exercise. Since type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition, the longer someone has it, the more likely they will require insulin to maintain blood sugar levels. Various types of insulin are used to treat diabetes and include: Rapid-acting insulin: It starts working approximately 15 minutes after injection and peaks at approximately 1 hour but continues to work for two to four hours. This is usually taken before a meal and in addition to a long-acting insulin. Short-acting insulin: It starts working approximately 30 minutes after injection and peaks at approximately 2 to 3 hours but will continue to work for three to six hours. It is usually given before a meal and in addition to a long-acting insulin. Intermediate-acting insulin: It starts working approximately 2 to 4 hours after injection and peaks approximately 4 to 12 hours later and continues to work for 12-18 hours. It is usually taken twice a day and in addition to a rapid- or short-acting insulin.

Long-acting insulin: It starts working after several hours after injection and works for approximately 24 hours. If necessary, it is often used in combination with rapid- or short-acting insulin. Insulin can be given by a syringe, injection pen, or an insulin pump that delivers a continuous flow of insulin. Your doctor will work with you to figure out which type of insulin is best for you depending on whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, your blood sugar levels,and your lifestyle. Pancreas Gland - Endocrine System Endocrine System Home > Endocrine System > Endocrine Glands of the Lower Torso > Pancreas Pancreas The pancreas is a glandular organ in the upper abdomen, but really it serves as two glands in one: a digestive exocrine gland and a hormone-producing endocrine gland. Functioning as an exocrine gland, the pancreas excretes enzymes to break down the proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids in food. Functioning as an endocrine gland, the pancreas secretes the hormones insulin and glucagon to control blood sugar levels throughout the day. Both of these diverse functions are vital to the body’s survival....

Move up/down/left/right: Click compass arrows Rotate image: Click and drag in any direction, anywhere in the frame Identify objects: Click on them in the image Anatomy of the Pancreas Gross Anatomy The pancreas is a narrow, 6-inch long gland that lies posterior and inferior to the stomach on the left side of the abdominal cavity. The pancreas extends laterally and superiorly across the abdomen from the curve of the duodenum to the spleen. The head of the pancreas, which connects to the duodenum, is the widest and most medial region of the organ. Extending laterally toward the left, the pancreas narrows slightly to form the body of the pancreas. The tail of the pancreas extends from the body as a narrow, tapered region on the left side of the abdominal cavity near the spleen . Glandular tissue that makes up the pancreas gives it a loose, lumpy structure. The glandular tissue surrounds many small ducts that drain into the central pancreatic duct . The pancreatic duct carries the digestive enzymes produced by endocrine cells to the duodenum. Microscopic Anatomy The pancreas is classified as a heterocrine gland because it contains both endocrine and exocrine glandular tissue.

The exocrine tissue makes up about 99% of the pancreas by weight while endocrine tissue makes up the other 1%. The exocrine tissue is arranged into many small masses known as acini. Acini are small raspberry-like clusters of exocrine cells that surround tiny ducts. The exocrine cells in the acini produce digestive enzymes that are secreted from the cells and enter the ducts. The ducts of many acini connect to form larger and larger ducts until the products of many acini run into the large pancreatic duct. The endocrine portion of the pancreas is made of small bundles of cells called islets of Langerhans. Many capillaries run through each islet to carry hormones to the rest of the body. There are 2 main types of endocrine cells that make up the islets: alpha cells and beta cells. Alpha cells produce the hormone glucagon, which raises blood glucose levels. Beta cells produce the hormone insulin, which lowers blood glucose levels. Physiology of the Pancreas Digestion The exocrine portion of the pancreas plays a major role in the digestion of food. The stomach slowly releases partially digested food into the duodenum as a thick, acidic liquid called chyme.

The acini of the pancreas secrete pancreatic juice to complete the digestion of chyme in the duodenum. Pancreatic juice is a mixture of water, salts, bicarbonate, and many different digestive enzymes. The bicarbonate ions present in pancreatic juice neutralize the acid in chyme to protect the intestinal wall and to create the proper environment for the functioning of pancreatic enzymes. The pancreatic enzymes each specialize in digesting specific compounds found in chyme. Pancreatic amylase breaks large polysaccharides like starches and glycogen into smaller sugars such as maltose, maltotriose, and glucose. Maltase secreted by the small intestine then breaks maltose into the monosaccharide glucose, which the intestines can directly absorb. Trypsin, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase are protein-digesting enzymes that break proteins down into their amino acid subunits. These amino acids can then be absorbed by the intestines. Pancreatic lipase is a lipid-digesting enzyme that breaks large triglyceride molecules into fatty acids and monoglycerides.

Bile released by the gallbladder emulsifies fats to increase the surface area of triglycerides that pancreatic lipase can react with. The fatty acids and monoglycerides produced by pancreatic lipase can be absorbed by the intestines. Ribonuclease and deoxyribonuclease are nucleases, or enzymes that digest nucleic acids. Ribonuclease breaks down molecules of RNA into the sugar ribose and the nitrogenous bases adenine, cytosine, guanine and uracil. Deoxyribonuclease digests DNA molecules into the sugar deoxyribose and the nitrogenous bases adenine, cytosine, guanine, and thymine. Blood Glucose Homeostasis The endocrine portion of the pancreas controls the homeostasis of glucose in the bloodstream . Blood glucose levels must be maintained within certain limits so that there is a constant supply of glucose to feed the cells of the body but not so much that glucose can damage the kidneys and other organs. The pancreas produces 2 antagonistic hormones to control blood sugar: glucagon and insulin. The alpha cells of the pancreas produce glucagon.

Glucagon raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to metabolize glycogen into glucose molecules and to release glucose into the blood. Glucagon also stimulates adipose tissue to metabolize triglycerides into glucose and to release glucose into the blood. Insulin is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. This hormone lowers blood glucose levels after a meal by stimulating the absorption of glucose by liver , muscle, and adipose tissues. Insulin triggers the formation of glycogen in the muscles and liver and triglycerides in adipose to store the absorbed glucose. Regulation of Pancreatic Function The pancreas is controlled by both the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the endocrine system. The ANS has 2 divisions: the sympathetic and the parasympathetic. Nerves of the sympathetic division become active during stressful situations, emergencies, and exercise. Sympathetic neurons stimulate the alpha cells of the pancreas to release the hormone glucagon into the bloodstream. Glucagon stimulates the liver to begin the breakdown of the energy storage molecule glycogen into smaller glucose molecules. Glucose is then released into the bloodstream for the organs, especially the heart and skeletal muscles , to use as energy.

The sympathetic nerves also inhibit the function of beta cells and acini to reduce or prevent the secretion of insulin and pancreatic juice. The inhibition of these functions provides more energy for other parts of the body that are active in dealing with the stressful situation. Nerves of the parasympathetic division of the ANS become active during restful times and during the digestion of a meal. Parasympathetic nerves stimulate the release of insulin and pancreatic juice by the pancreas. Pancreatic juice helps with the digestion of food while insulin stores the glucose released from the digested food in the body’s cells. The endocrine system uses 2 hormones to regulate the digestive function of the pancreas: secretin and cholecystokinin (CCK). Cells in the lining of the duodenum produce secretin in response to acidic chyme emerging from the stomach. Secretin stimulates the pancreas to produce and secrete pancreatic juice containing a high concentration of bicarbonate ions. Bicarbonate reacts with and neutralizes hydrochloric acid present in chyme to return the chyme to a neutral pH of around 7.

CCK is a hormone produced by cells in the lining of the duodenum in response to the presence of proteins and fats in chyme. CCK travels through the bloodstream and binds to receptor cells in the acini of the pancreas. CCK stimulates these cells to produce and secrete pancreatic juice that has a high concentration of digestive enzymes. The high levels of enzymes in pancreatic juice help to digest large protein and lipid molecules that are more difficult to break down. Pancreatic health problems If the ducts leading from the pancreas are blocked in some way – such as when a gallstone blocks the ampulla of Vater - pancreatic fluids can build up in the pancreas and may then become activated so that they digest the pancreas itself. This condition is known as acute pancreatitis . If the onset is gradual and longer-term, we call it chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic cancer has one of the direst prognoses of any of the types of cancer, in part because it tends to be very metastatic (it spreads rapidly) and because it is often undiagnosed at an early stage.

Pancreatic surgery can be quite problematic for several reasons: The pancreas’ soft, spongy, tissue is very blood-rich, but its texture makes it extremely difficult to suture. Tumors are often advanced by the time they are detected. Due to the complexities, candidates for surgery are often strongly advised to seek their treatment in a facility that conducts a higher volume of such procedures. Prepared by Tim Taylor, Anatomy and Physiology Instructor About Diabetes About Diabetes Updated:Sep 30,2015 "Diabetes mellitus," more commonly referred to as "diabetes," is a condition that causes blood sugar to rise to dangerous levels: a fasting blood glucose of 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or more. How Diabetes Develops After eating a meal, the food is broken down by the digestive system and blood sugar (or glucose) rises. The pancreas is an organ near the stomach, which produces a hormone called insulin. With the help of insulin, the body's cells take up the glucose and use it for energy. When your body does not produce enough insulin and/or does not efficiently use the insulin it produces, sugar levels rise in the bloodstream.

When this happens, it can cause two problems: Right away, the body's cells may be starved for energy. Over time, high blood glucose levels may damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart. Types of Diabetes There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. A family history of diabetes can significantly increase a person's risk of developing the condition. Type 1 Diabetes Type 1 diabetes is a serious condition that occurs when the pancreas makes little or no insulin. Without insulin, the body is unable to take the glucose (blood sugar) it gets from food into cells to fuel the body. People with type 1 diabetes must take daily insulin or other medications daily. For that reason, this type of diabetes is also referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes. Type 1 diabetes was previously known as juvenile diabetes because it's usually diagnosed in children and young adults. However, this chronic, lifelong disease can strike at any age, and those with a family history of type 1 diabetes have a greater risk. Health Risks for Type 1 Diabetes During the development of type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system attacks certain cells (called beta cells) in the pancreas.

Although the reasons this occurs are still unknown, the effects are clear. Once these cells are destroyed, the pancreas produces little or no insulin, so the glucose stays in the blood. When there's too much glucose in the blood, especially for prolonged periods, all the organ systems in the body suffer long-term damage. Learn more about the health consequences of diabetes and how to treat it . Type 2 Diabetes Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Historically, type 2 diabetes has been diagnosed primarily in adults. Today, however, adolescents and young adults are developing type 2 diabetes at an alarming rate. This correlates with the increasing incidence of obesity and physical inactivity in this population, both of which are risk factors for type 2 diabetes. This type of diabetes can occur when: The body develops "insulin resistance" and can't make efficient use of the insulin it makes, and The pancreas gradually loses its capacity to produce insulin. In a mild form, this type of diabetes can go undiagnosed for many years, which is a cause for great concern since untreated diabetes can lead to many serious medical problems , including cardiovascular disease. Type 2 diabetes may be delayed or controlled with diet and exercise.

Precursors to Diabetes In addition to full-blown diabetes mellitus, there are precursors to the disease: Insulin Resistance Insulin resistance is a condition that affects more than 60 million Americans. Insulin resistance occurs when the body makes insulin but does not use it efficiently and glucose builds up in the blood instead of being used by cells. To compensate for the high blood sugar levels, the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas release more and more insulin to try to keep blood sugar levels normal. Gradually, these cells fail to keep up with the body's need for insulin and blood sugar levels begin to rise. Insulin resistance can lead to both pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. When a fasting individual has too much glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia) or too much insulin in the blood (hyperinsulinemia), it indicates a person may have insulin resistance. Pre-diabetes Pre-diabetes means that your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not to the levels to be diagnosed with diabetes. If you’ve been told by your healthcare provider that you have “pre-diabetes” it also means that without making some healthy changes, you have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Learn more about pre-diabetes .

Health Risks of Insulin Resistance People with insulin resistance are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. They also are more likely to have a history of being obese and physically inactive and to have other cardiovascular risk factors such as dyslipidemia (too much) LDL ("bad") cholesterol , not enough HDL ("good") cholesterol , or high triglycerides , hypertension, and other factors that can increase cardiovascular risk. Untreated diabetes can lead to many serious medical problems , including heart disease and stroke. That's why it's important to be aware of the symptoms as well as the risk factors and to take appropriate steps to prevent and treat insulin resistance and diabetes. This content was last reviewed August 2015. Physiologic Effects of Insulin Glossary Physiologic Effects of Insulin Stand on a streetcorner and ask people if they know what insulin is, and many will reply, "Doesn't it have something to do with blood sugar?" Indeed, that is correct, but such a response is a bit like saying "Mozart?

Wasn't he some kind of a musician?" Insulin is a key player in the control of intermediary metabolism, and the big picture is that it organizes the use of fuels for either storage or oxidation. Through these activities, insulin has profound effects on both carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and significant influences on protein and mineral metabolism. Consequently, derangements in insulin signalling have widespread and devastating effects on many organs and tissues. The Insulin Receptor and Mechanism of Action Like the receptors for other protein hormones, the receptor for insulin is embedded in the plasma membrane. The insulin receptor is composed of two alpha subunits and two beta subunits linked by disulfide bonds. The alpha chains are entirely extracellular and house insulin binding domains, while the linked beta chains penetrate through the plasma membrane. The insulin receptor is a tyrosine kinase. In other words, it functions as an enzyme that transfers phosphate groups from ATP to tyrosine residues on intracellular target proteins. Binding of insulin to the alpha subunits causes the beta subunits to phosphorylate themselves (autophosphorylation), thus activating the catalytic activity of the receptor.

The activated receptor then phosphorylates a number of intracellular proteins, which in turn alters their activity, thereby generating a biological response. Several intracellular proteins have been identified as phosphorylation substrates for the insulin receptor, the best-studied of which is insulin receptor substrate 1 or IRS-1. When IRS-1 is activated by phosphorylation, a lot of things happen. Among other things, IRS-1 serves as a type of docking center for recruitment and activation of other enzymes that ultimately mediate insulin's effects. A more detailed look at these processes is presented in the section on Insulin Signal Transduction . Insulin and Carbohydrate Metabolism Glucose is liberated from dietary carbohydrate such as starch or sucrose by hydrolysis within the small intestine , and is then absorbed into the blood. Elevated concentrations of glucose in blood stimulate release of insulin, and insulin acts on cells thoughout the body to stimulate uptake, utilization and storage of glucose. The effects of insulin on glucose metabolism vary depending on the target tissue. Two important effects are: 1. Insulin facilitates entry of glucose into muscle, adipose and several other tissues.

The only mechanism by which cells can take up glucose is by facilitated diffusion through a family of hexose transporters . In many tissues - muscle being a prime example - the major transporter used for uptake of glucose (called GLUT4) is made available in the plasma membrane through the action of insulin. When insulin concentrations are low, GLUT4 glucose transporters are present in cytoplasmic< vesicles, where they are useless for transporting glucose. Binding of insulin to receptors on such cells leads rapidly to fusion of those vesicles with the plasma membrane and insertion of the glucose transporters, thereby giving the cell an ability to efficiently take up glucose. When blood levels of insulin decrease and insulin receptors are no longer occupied, the glucose transporters are recycled back into the cytoplasm. The animation to the right depicts how insulin signalling leads to translocation of glucose transporters from the cytoplasm into the plasma membrane, allowing glucose (small blue balls) to enter the cell. Click on the "Add Glucose" button to start it. It should be noted here that there are some tissues that do not require insulin for efficient uptake of glucose: important examples are brain and the liver.

This is because these cells don't use GLUT4 for importing glucose, but rather, another transporter that is not insulin-dependent. 2. Insulin stimulates the liver to store glucose in the form of glycogen. A large fraction of glucose absorbed from the small intestine is immediately taken up by hepatocytes, which convert it into the storage polymer glycogen. Insulin has several effects in liver which stimulate glycogen synthesis. First, it activates the enzyme hexokinase, which phosphorylates glucose, trapping it within the cell. Coincidently, insulin acts to inhibit the activity of glucose-6-phosphatase. Insulin also activates several of the enzymes that are directly involved in glycogen synthesis, including phosphofructokinase and glycogen synthase. The net effect is clear: when the supply of glucose is abundant, insulin "tells" the liver to bank as much of it as possible for use later. A well-known effect of insulin is to decrease the concentration of glucose in blood, which should make sense considering the mechanisms described above. Another important consideration is that, as blood glucose concentrations fall, insulin secretion ceases.

In the absense of insulin, a bulk of the cells in the body become unable to take up glucose, and begin a switch to using alternative fuels like fatty acids for energy. Neurons, however, require a constant supply of glucose, which in the short term, is provided from glycogen reserves. When insulin levels in blood fall, glycogen synthesis in the liver diminishes and enzymes responsible for breakdown of glycogen become active. Glycogen breakdown is stimulated not only by the absense of insulin but by the presence of glucagon , which is secreted when blood glucose levels fall below the normal range. Insulin and Lipid Metabolism The metabolic pathways for utilization of fats and carbohydrates are deeply and intricately intertwined. Considering insulin's profound effects on carbohydrate metabolism, it stands to reason that insulin also has important effects on lipid metabolism, including the following: Insulin promotes synthesis of fatty acids in the liver. As discussed above, insulin is stimulatory to synthesis of glycogen in the liver. However, as glycogen accumulates to high levels (roughly 5% of liver mass), further synthesis is strongly suppressed.

When the liver is saturated with glycogen, any additional glucose taken up by hepatocytes is shunted into pathways leading to synthesis of fatty acids, which are exported from the liver as lipoproteins. The lipoproteins are ripped apart in the circulation, providing free fatty acids for use in other tissues, including adipocytes, which use them to synthesize triglyceride. Insulin inhibits breakdown of fat in adipose tissue by inhibiting the intracellular lipase that hydrolyzes triglycerides to release fatty acids. Insulin facilitates entry of glucose into adipocytes, and within those cells, glucose can be used to synthesize glycerol. This glycerol, along with the fatty acids delivered from the liver, are used to synthesize triglyceride within the adipocyte. By these mechanisms, insulin is involved in further accumulation of triglyceride in fat cells. From a whole body perspective, insulin has a fat-sparing effect. Not only does it drive most cells to preferentially oxidize carbohydrates instead of fatty acids for energy, insulin indirectly stimulates accumulation of fat in adipose tissue.

Other Notable Effects of Insulin In addition to insulin's effect on entry of glucose into cells, it also stimulates the uptake of amino acids, again contributing to its overall anabolic effect. When insulin levels are low, as in the fasting state, the balance is pushed toward intracellular protein degradation. Insulin also increases the permiability of many cells to potassium, magnesium and phosphate ions. The effect on potassium is clinically important. Insulin activates sodium-potassium ATPases in many cells, causing a flux of potassium into cells. Under certain circumstances, injection of insulin can kill patients because of its ability to acutely suppress plasma potassium concentrations. Insulin Deficiency and Excess Diseases Diabetes mellitus, arguably the most important metabolic disease of man, is an insulin deficiency state. It also is a significant cause of disease in dogs and cats. Two principal forms of this disease are recognized: Type I or insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is the result of a frank deficiency of insulin. The onset of this disease typically is in childhood. It is due to destruction pancreatic beta cells, most likely the result of autoimmunity to one or more components of those cells. Many of the acute effects of this disease can be controlled by insulin replacement therapy.

Maintaining tight control of blood glucose concentrations by monitoring, treatment with insulin and dietary management will minimize the long-term adverse effects of this disorder on blood vessels, nerves and other organ systems, allowing a healthy life. Type II or non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus begins as a syndrome of insulin resistance. That is, target tissues fail to respond appropriately to insulin. Typically, the onset of this disease is in adulthood. Despite monumental research efforts, the precise nature of the defects leading to type II diabetes have been difficult to ascertain, and the pathogenesis of this condition is plainly multifactorial. Obesity is clearly a major risk factor, but in some cases of extreme obesity in humans and animals, insulin sensitivity is normal. Because there is not, at least initially, an inability to secrete adequate amounts of insulin, insulin injections are not useful for therapy. Rather the disease is controlled through dietary therapy and hypoglycemic agents. Hyperinsulinemia or excessive insulin secretion is most commonly a consequence of insulin resistance, associated with type 2 diabetes or the metabolic syndrome. More rarely, hyperinsulinemia results from an insulin-secreting tumor (insulinoma) in the pancreas.

Hyperinsulinemia due to accidental or deliberate injection of excessive insulin is dangerous and can be acutely life-threatening because blood levels of glucose drop rapidly and the brain becomes starved for energy (insulin shock). What organ produces insulin? | Healthshare Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners What organ produces insulin? Wanting to know what organ produces insulin? 8 answers 13 Thanks I am qualified as a PHYSIOTHERAPIST and ACCREDITED EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST.I primarily use the McKENZIE METHOD for assessment and management of musculoskeletal pain disorders. The McKENZIE ... View Profile Hi edz! Insulin is produced by the pancreas. Why are you interested in knowing what organ produces insulin? Regards, Neil Thanks Reply to this post You must be a Healthshare member to reply to this post. Log in to your account or Sign up now (it's free). Advertisement Thanks Reply to this post You must be a Healthshare member to reply to this post. Log in to your account or Sign up now (it's free). 6 Thanks I'm a Credentialed diabetes educator I work together with 2 endocrinologists.

I'm specialized in type 1 diabetes, insulin pump therapy and sport and diabetes. I ... View Profile The pancreas has two functions it produce digestive juces and also insulin. Diabetes is a condition where you dont produce enough insulin. If you have issues with your pancreas like infections (pancreatitis) or some types of cancer you might risk develop diabetes. Both pancreatitis and pancreas cancer are quite rare but serious. Regards Inger Thanks Reply to this post You must be a Healthshare member to reply to this post. Log in to your account or Sign up now (it's free). Rochelle Thanks Reply to this post You must be a Healthshare member to reply to this post. Log in to your account or Sign up now (it's free). Counsellor, Diabetes Educator, Psychotherapist, Registered Nurse 0 4 Thanks Carolien Koreneff is a Somatic (body-oriented) psychotherapist, Health Coach, Counsellor as well as a Credentialed Diabetes Educator with nearly 20 years experience. She currently sees ... View Profile As others before me have explained it is the pancreas that produces insulin, but not the whole pancreas!

Only the beta cells in the pancreas produce insulin, so the development of diabetes is related to a beta cell function failure of some kind. In type 1 diabetes the beta cells are being “killed”, whereas in type 2 they are still present, but not working well enough. The pancreas also contains alpha cells which produce glucagon, the ‘antidote’ to insulin, so called because glucagon can release glycogen (stored glucose) back into the blood stream. People with type 1 diabetes often have both alpha and beta cell failure and this combination puts them at higher risk of hypoglycaemia. 11 Effects of Insulin on the Body insulin on the Body Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. Its function is to allow other cells to transform glucose into energy throughout your body. Without insulin, cells are starved for energy and must seek an alternate source. This can lead to life-threatening complications. People with diabetes can inject insulin into the abdomen, upper arms, thighs, or buttocks. Read more. An insulin pump placed under the skin of the abdomen can take the place of frequent injections. Read more. Your pancreas produces insulin and releases it into the bloodstream when you eat.

Insulin therapy can step in for a nonfunctioning pancreas. Read more. Insulin is vital to your body’s ability to create energy from glucose and to distribute it to cells throughout your body. Read more. Insulin tells the liver to take excess glucose from the bloodstream and store it for later use. Read more. Insulin directs muscles and fat cells to store extra glucose so it won’t overload your bloodstream. Read more. Too much or too little glucose in your bloodstream is dangerous. It can even be life threatening. Insulin helps keep glucose within a healthy range. Read more. Insulin helps to distribute energy to cells throughout your body, including your central nervous system and cardiovascular system, so they can function properly. Read more. Cells in every part of your body need energy to function and to remain healthy. Without insulin, cells become starved for energy and seek it elsewhere, which can lead to dangerous complications. Read more. Insulin uses your bloodstream as a transportation route to cells all around your body. A blood test can reveal blood sugar levels that are too high or too low. Read more. Insulin helps you use glucose for energy. Without it, your body begins to burn fat, which may cause high levels of toxic ketones.

High levels of ketones can be detected in urine. Read more. Insulin Injection Sites In the Bloodstream The Effects of Insulin on the Body Insulin is a natural hormone produced in the pancreas. When you eat, your pancreas releases insulin to help your body make energy out of sugars (glucose). It also helps you store energy. Insulin is a vital part of metabolism. Without it, your body would cease to function. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas is no longer able to produce insulin. In Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas initially produces insulin, but the cells of your body are unable to make good use of the insulin (insulin resistance). Uncontrolled diabetes allows glucose to build up in the blood rather than being distributed to cells or stored. This can wreak havoc with virtually every part of your body. Complications of diabetes include kidney disease, nerve damage, eye problems, and stomach problems. People with Type 1 diabetes need insulin therapy to live. Some people with Type 2 diabetes must also take insulin therapy to control blood sugar levels and avoid complications. Insulin is usually injected into the abdomen, but it can also be injected into the upper arms, thighs, or buttocks.

Injection sites should be rotated within the same general location. Frequent injections in the same spot can cause fatty deposits that make delivery of insulin more difficult. Some people use a pump, which delivers insulin through a catheter placed underneath the skin of the abdomen. Endocrine, Excretory, and Digestive Systems When you eat, food travels to your stomach and small intestines where it is broken down into nutrients. The nutrients are absorbed and distributed via your bloodstream. The pancreas is an organ located in your abdomen between your stomach and your spine. This integral component of your digestive system produces insulin and releases it into the bloodstream when you eat. Insulin is an important part of metabolism and necessary for turning glucose into energy and distributing it to cells all throughout your body. Insulin helps the liver, muscle, and fat cells to store the glucose you don’t need right away, so it can be used for energy later. In turn, the liver produces less glucose on its own. This keeps your blood glucose levels in check. The liver releases small amounts of glucose into your bloodstream between meals to keep your blood sugars within that healthy range.

Circulatory System When insulin enters your bloodstream, it helps cells throughout your body — including in your central nervous system and cardiovascular system — to absorb glucose. It’s the circulatory system’s job to deliver insulin. As long as the pancreas produces enough insulin and your body can use it properly, blood sugar levels will be kept within a healthy range. A buildup of glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia) can cause complications like nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney damage, and eye problems. Symptoms of high blood glucose include excessive thirst and frequent urination. Too little glucose in the blood (hypoglycemia) can make you feel irritable, tired, or confused. Low blood sugar can lead to loss of consciousness. When you don’t have enough insulin, your body’s cells begin to starve. Because the cells can’t use the glucose, they begin to break down fat for energy. In addition to a buildup of glucose in your blood, this process creates a dangerous buildup of chemicals called ketones. Symptoms include sweet-smelling breath, dry mouth, nausea, and vomiting. Your body tries to get rid of the ketones through your urine, but sometimes it can’t keep up.

This causes a life-threatening condition called ketoacidosis. If you have diabetes, insulin therapy can do the job your pancreas can’t. Rapid-acting insulin reaches the bloodstream within 15 minutes and keeps working for up to four hours. Short-acting insulin enters the bloodstream within 30 minutes and works for up to six hours. Intermediate-acting insulin finds its way into your bloodstream within two to four hours and is effective for about 18 hours. Long-acting insulin starts working within a few hours and keeps glucose levels even for about 24 hours. Blood tests can quickly indicate whether your glucose levels are too high or too low. Recommended for You Insulin 101: Everything You Need to Know From its natural role in the body to types of insulin therapy, we give you the facts you need. Endocrine System Endocrine System El sistema endocrino Ever dozed through chemistry class and wondered what chemistry had to do with you? A lot! Your body produces its own chemicals and uses them to control certain functions, and the main system that coordinates these chemicals is called the endocrine system. What Is the Endocrine System?

Although we rarely think about the endocrine system, it influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. The endocrine system plays a role in regulating mood, growth and development, tissue function, metabolism, and sexual function and reproductive processes. In general, the endocrine system is in charge of body processes that happen slowly, such as cell growth. Faster processes like breathing and body movement are controlled by the nervous system. But even though the nervous system and endocrine system are separate systems, they often work together to help the body function properly. The foundations of the endocrine system are the hormones and glands. As the body's chemical messengers, hormones transfer information and instructions from one set of cells to another. Many different hormones move through the bloodstream, but each type of hormone is designed to affect only certain cells. A gland is a group of cells that produces and secretes, or gives off, chemicals. A gland selects and removes materials from the blood, processes them, and secretes the finished chemical product for use somewhere in the body. Some types of glands release their secretions in specific areas.

For instance, exocrine (pronounced: EK-suh-krin) glands, such as the sweat and salivary glands, release secretions in the skin or inside the mouth. Endocrine glands, on the other hand, release more than 20 major hormones directly into the bloodstream where they can be transported to cells in other parts of the body. The major glands that make up the human endocrine system include the: hypothalamus continue Hypothalamus The hypothalamus (pronounced: hi-po-THAL-uh-mus), a collection of specialized cells that is located in the lower central part of the brain, is the main link between the endocrine and nervous systems. Nerve cells in the hypothalamus control the pituitary gland by producing chemicals that either stimulate or suppress hormone secretions from the pituitary. Pituitary Although it is no bigger than a pea, the pituitary (pronounced: puh-TOO-uh-ter-ee) gland, located at the base of the brain just beneath the hypothalamus, is considered the most important part of the endocrine system.

It's often called the "master gland" because it makes hormones that control several other endocrine glands. The production and secretion of pituitary hormones can be influenced by factors such as emotions and changes in the seasons. To accomplish this, the hypothalamus provides information sensed by the brain (such as environmental temperature, light exposure patterns, and feelings) to the pituitary. The tiny pituitary is divided into two parts: the anterior lobe and the posterior lobe. The anterior lobe regulates the activity of the thyroid, adrenals, and reproductive glands.

The anterior lobe produces hormones such as: growth hormone, which stimulates the growth of bone and other body tissues and plays a role in the body's handling of nutrients and minerals prolactin (pronounced: pro-LAK-tin), which activates milk production in women who are breastfeeding thyrotropin (pronounced: thy-ruh-TRO-pin), which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones corticotropin (pronounced: kor-tih-ko-TRO-pin), which stimulates the adrenal gland to produce certain hormones The pituitary also secretes endorphins (pronounced: en-DOR-fins), chemicals that act on the nervous system and reduce feelings of pain. In addition, the pituitary secretes hormones that signal the reproductive organs to make sex hormones. The pituitary gland also controls ovulation and the menstrual cycle in women. The posterior lobe of the pituitary releases antidiuretic (pronounced: an-ty-dy-uh-REH-tik) hormone, which helps control the balance of water in the body.

The posterior lobe also produces oxytocin (pronounced: ahk-see-TOE-sin), which triggers the contractions of the uterus in a woman having a baby. previous continue Thyroid The thyroid (pronounced: THY-royd), located in the front part of the lower neck, is shaped like a bow tie or butterfly and produces the thyroid hormones thyroxine (pronounced: thy-RAHK-sin) and triiodothyronine (pronounced: try-eye-oh-doe-THY-ruh-neen). These hormones control the rate at which cells burn fuels from food to produce energy. The production and release of thyroid hormones is controlled by thyrotropin (pronounced: thy-ruh-TRO-pin), which is secreted by the pituitary gland. The more thyroid hormone there is in a person's bloodstream, the faster chemical reactions occur in the body. Why are thyroid hormones so important? There are several reasons — for example, they help kids' and teens' bones grow and develop, and they also play a role in the development of the brain and nervous system in kids.

Parathyroids Attached to the thyroid are four tiny glands that function together called the parathyroids (pronounced: par-uh-THY-roydz). They release parathyroid hormone, which regulates the level of calcium in the blood with the help of calcitonin (pronounced: kal-suh-TOE-nin), which is produced in the thyroid. Adrenal Glands The body also has two triangular adrenal (pronounced: uh-DREE-nul) glands, one on top of each kidney. The adrenal glands have two parts, each of which produces a set of hormones and has a different function: The outer part, the adrenal cortex, produces hormones called corticosteroids (pronounced: kor-tih-ko-STER-oydz) that influence or regulate salt and water balance in the body, the body's response to stress, metabolism, the immune system, and sexual development and function. The inner part, the adrenal medulla (pronounced: muh-DUH-luh), produces catecholamines (pronounced: kah-tuh-KO-luh-meenz), such as epinephrine (pronounced: eh-puh-NEH-frun).

Also called adrenaline, epinephrine increases blood pressure and heart rate when the body experiences stress. previous continue Pineal The pineal (pronounced: pih-NEE-ul) body, also called the pineal gland, is located in the middle of the brain. It secretes melatonin (pronounced: meh-luh-TOE-nin), a hormone that may help regulate when you sleep at night and when you wake in the morning. Reproductive Glands The gonads are the main source of sex hormones. Most people don't realize it, but both guys and girls have gonads. In guys the male gonads, or testes (pronounced: TES-teez), are located in the scrotum. They secrete hormones called androgens (pronounced: AN-druh-junz), the most important of which is testosterone (pronounced: tess-TOSS-tuh-rone). These hormones tell a guy's body when it's time to make the changes associated with puberty , like penis and height growth, deepening voice, and growth in facial and pubic hair.

Working with hormones from the pituitary gland, testosterone also tells a guy's body when it's time to produce sperm in the testes. A girl's gonads, the ovaries (pronounced: OH-vuh-reez), are located in her pelvis. They produce eggs and secrete the female hormones estrogen (pronounced: ESS-truh-jen) and progesterone (pronounced: pro-JESS-tuh-rone). Estrogen is involved when a girl begins to go through puberty. During puberty, a girl will experience breast growth, will begin to accumulate body fat around the hips and thighs, and will have a growth spurt. Estrogen and progesterone are also involved in the regulation of a girl's menstrual cycle. These hormones also play a role in pregnancy. Although the endocrine glands are the body's main hormone producers, some other organs not in the endocrine system — such as the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and skin — also produce and release hormones. Pancreas The pancreas (pronounced: PAN-kree-us) is also part of the body's hormone-secreting system, even though it is also associated with the digestive system because it produces and secretes digestive enzymes.

The pancreas produces (in addition to others) two important hormones, insulin (pronounced: IN-suh-lin) and glucagon (pronounced: GLOO-kuh-gawn). They work together to maintain a steady level of glucose, or sugar, in the blood and to keep the body supplied with fuel to produce and maintain stores of energy. previous continue What Does the Endocrine System Do? Once a hormone is secreted, it travels from the endocrine gland that produced it through the bloodstream to the cells designed to receive its message. These cells are called target cells. Along the way to the target cells, special proteins bind to some of the hormones. These proteins act as carriers that control the amount of hormone that is available for the cells to use. The target cells have receptors that latch onto only specific hormones, and each hormone has its own receptor, so that each hormone will communicate only with specific target cells that have receptors for that hormone. When the hormone reaches its target cell, it locks onto the cell's specific receptors and these hormone-receptor combinations transmit chemical instructions to the inner workings of the cell. When hormone levels reach a certain normal amount, the endocrine system helps the body to keep that level of hormone in the blood.

For example, if the thyroid gland has secreted the right amount of thyroid hormones into the blood, the pituitary gland senses the normal levels of thyroid hormone in the bloodstream. Then the pituitary gland adjusts its release of thyrotropin, the hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Another example of this process is parathyroid hormone, which increases the level of calcium in the blood. When the blood calcium level rises, the parathyroid glands sense the change and reduce their secretion of parathyroid hormone. This turnoff process is called a negative feedback system. previous continue Things That Can Go Wrong Too much or too little of any hormone can be harmful to your body. For example, if the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone, a teen may grow excessively tall. If it produces too little, a teen may be unusually short. Doctors can often treat problems with the endocrine system by controlling the production of hormones or replacing certain hormones with medication. Endocrine problems that can affect teens include: Adrenal insufficiency. This condition occurs when the adrenal glands don't produce enough corticosteroids. The symptoms of adrenal insufficiency may include weakness, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, dehydration, and skin changes.

Doctors treat adrenal insufficiency with medications to replace corticosteroid hormones. Type 1 diabetes . When the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, type 1 diabetes (previously known as juvenile diabetes) occurs. In kids and teens, type 1 diabetes is usually an autoimmune disorder, which means that some parts of the body's immune system attack and destroy the cells of the pancreas that produce insulin. To control their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes problems, kids and teens with this condition need regular injections of insulin. Type 2 diabetes. Unlike type 1 diabetes, in which the body can't produce normal amounts of insulin, in type 2 diabetes the body can't respond to insulin normally. Kids and teens with the condition tend to be overweight. Some kids and teens can control their blood sugar level with dietary changes, exercise, and oral medications, but many will need to take insulin injections like people with type 1 diabetes. Growth hormone problems. Too much growth hormone in kids and teens who are still growing will make their bones and other body parts grow excessively. This rare condition (sometimes called gigantism) is usually caused by a pituitary tumor and can be treated by removing the tumor.

The opposite can happen when a kid or teen has a pituitary glad that doesn't produce enough growth hormone. Doctors may treat these growth problems with medication. Hyperthyroidism . Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood are very high. In kids and teens, the condition is usually caused by Graves' disease, an immune system problem that causes the thyroid gland to become very active. Doctors may treat hyperthyroidism with medications, surgery, or radiation treatments. Hypothyroidism . Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood are very low. Thyroid hormone deficiency slows body processes and may lead to fatigue, a slow heart rate, dry skin, weight gain, and constipation. Kids and teens with this condition may also grow more slowly and reach puberty at a later age. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an immune system problem that often causes problems with the thyroid and blocks the production of thyroid hormone. Doctors often treat this problem with medication. Precocious puberty. If the pituitary glands release hormones that stimulate the gonads to produce sex hormones too early, some kids may begin to go through puberty at a very young age.

This condition is called precocious puberty. Kids and teens who are affected by precocious puberty can be treated with medication that will help them develop at a normal rate. How Our Bodies Turn Food Into Energy Classes & Events How Our Bodies Turn Food Into Energy All parts of the body (muscles, brain, heart, and liver) need energy to work. This energy comes from the food we eat. Our bodies digest the food we eat by mixing it with fluids (acids and enzymes) in the stomach. When the stomach digests food, the carbohydrate (sugars and starches) in the food breaks down into another type of sugar, called glucose. The stomach and small intestines absorb the glucose and then release it into the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, glucose can be used immediately for energy or stored in our bodies, to be used later. However, our bodies need insulin in order to use or store glucose for energy. Without insulin, glucose stays in the bloodstream, keeping blood sugar levels high. How the Body Makes Insulin Insulin is a hormone made by beta cells in the pancreas. Beta cells are very sensitive to the amount of glucose in the bloodstream.

Normally beta cells check the blood's glucose level every few seconds and sense when they need to speed up or slow down the amount of insulin they're making and releasing. When someone eats something high in carbohydrates, like a piece of bread, the glucose level in the blood rises and the beta cells trigger the pancreas to release more insulin into the bloodstream. See Illustration: How Insulin Works Insulin Opens Cell Doors When insulin is released from the pancreas, it travels through the bloodstream to the body's cells and tells the cell doors to open up to let the glucose in. Once inside, the cells convert glucose into energy to use right then or store it to use later. As glucose moves from the bloodstream into the cells, blood sugar levels start to drop. The beta cells in the pancreas can tell this is happening, so they slow down the amount of insulin they're making. At the same time, the pancreas slows down the amount of insulin that it's releasing into the bloodstream. When this happens, the amount of glucose going into the cells also slows down. Balancing Insulin and Blood Sugar for Energy The rise and fall in insulin and blood sugar happens many times during the day and night.

The amount of glucose and insulin in our bloodstream depends on when we eat and how much. When the body is working as it should, it can keep blood sugar at a normal level, which is between 70 and 120 milligrams per deciliter. However, even in people without diabetes, blood sugar levels can go up as high as 180 during or right after a meal. Within two hours after eating, blood sugar levels should drop to under 140. After several hours without eating, blood sugar can drop as low as 70. Using glucose for energy and keeping it balanced with just the right amount of insulin — not too much and not too little — is the way our bodies maintain the energy needed to stay alive, work, play, and function even as we sleep. Insulin Helps Our Bodies Store Extra Glucose Insulin helps our cells convert glucose into energy, and it helps our bodies store extra glucose for use later. For example, if you eat a large meal and your body doesn't need that much glucose right away, insulin will help your body store it to convert to energy later. Insulin does this by turning the extra food into larger packages of glucose called glycogen.

Glycogen is stored in the liver and muscles. Insulin also helps our bodies store fat and protein. Almost all body cells need protein to work and grow. The body needs fat to protect nerves and make several important hormones. Fat can also be used by the body as an energy source. How Diabetes Changes the Way This Works With diabetes, the body has stopped making insulin, has slowed down the amount of insulin it's making, or is no longer able to use its own insulin very well. When this happens, it can lead to several things. For example, glucose cannot enter the cells where it's needed, so the amount of glucose in the bloodstream continues to rise. This is called hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). When blood sugar levels reach 180 or higher, the kidneys try to get rid of the extra sugar through the urine. This makes a person urinate more than usual. It also makes a person feel thirstier because of the water he or she is losing by urinating so much. When a person loses sugar in the urine, it's the same as losing energy because the sugar isn't available for the cells to use or store.

When this happens, a person might feel tired, lose weight, and feel hungry all the time. Other problems caused by high blood sugar include blurry vision and skin infections or injuries that don't heal. Women might have vaginal yeast infections more often. When the body doesn't have enough insulin to help convert sugar into energy, it often starts burning body fat instead. This sounds like it might work well, but burning too much fat for energy produces a byproduct called ketones. High levels of ketones can lead to a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which can be life threatening if not treated quickly. DKA is more common in type 1 diabetes because the body has stopped making insulin. Keep Blood Sugar Levels Under Control For a person with diabetes, the main focus of treatment is to control the amount of glucose in the body so that blood sugar levels stay as close to normal as possible. People with type 1 diabetes need insulin shots as part of their care plan to control their blood sugar levels. Some people with type 2 diabetes can control their blood sugar levels with a healthy diet and exercise. However, many people with type 2 diabetes will need to include diabetes pills, insulin shots, or both in their diabetes care plans.

People with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes need to pay close attention to how blood sugar levels change at various times throughout the day in order to keep them as close to normal as possible. When blood sugar levels are close to normal, it means the body is getting the energy it needs to work, play, heal, and stay healthy. Clinical review by David McCulloch, MD Group Health

Question: Which organ of the body secretes insulin?
Answer: Pancreas